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This song was offered at the conclusion of my sermon this weekend. We had spoken about the prodigal son and his brother. More or less, the message was that some people don’t want to accept you because they remember what you used to be. God still calls you beloved, even though others don’t! Oh, and the short one on the left is Ashlei! Stay blessed…john

Once upon a time… A preacher greeted the congregation as they exited the sanctuary. It had been a blessing of a time, a gathering that included the faithful praying for God’s will, hearing God’s love proclaimed enthusiastically and the receiving of Holy Communion. People smiled, hugged and even offered a holy kiss or two as the time for their gathered worship concluded. One saint offered a blessing as he was leaving, just like most people…..

Y’all, I teared up. I can’t recall the last time I felt this affirmed about the ministry God has given me! Out of the blue, unnecessarily, I received 2 words of encouragement and affirmation yesterday. They were unrelated comments and given by two totally different people. I usually struggle with compliments. Many of you know that. But I received those words as true affirmation. I didn’t think too much about it afterwards. Then! I’ve cried in…..

By the time you hear a sermon preached, there are words, illustrations and maybe even a rant or two that’s been left out. This weekend, I preached from 1 Corinthians 12. We heard that one of the gifts God has given us, the church, is the gift of unity. The unity of God’s Church is unique. No other group of humans can experience this unity in the same way because God has brought us together……

When you’re a pastor, someone is there to say something discouraging to you. And about you. Someone is there to question everything you say and do. Yes, everything. Someone will have their more-than-fair share of critiques of you. And opinions When you’re a pastor, some people give you credit that only belongs to God. Some lie to you. Some people will fake you out and use you for what they want. Some bail on you……